Dean Smith sweating over Anthony Forde's fitness

Forde was forced out of Tuesday's 3-2 win over Rochdale at half-time with a tight groin. The Saddlers hope the problem is only down to fatigue rather than an injury.

The 21-year-old had earlier scored his fifth goal of the season and third in seven games and Smith has been hugely impressed with how the summer signing from Wolves has kicked on.

"He has been excellent," said Smith. "He has got better and better as the season has gone on and the number of games he has been playing has held him in good stead.

"He looks fitter, he looks brighter, very energetic and he looks like there is going to be an end product any time he gets it.

"It is early, it was a tight groin and it might be a fatigue issue. He has played a number of games in a short period of time."

Smith was delighted by a first-half performance of three goals in nine minutes – a cushion which eventually proved enough to withstand a second-half fightback from the visitors.

Jordy Hiwula netted his second in as many games since joining the club on loan after being handed his first start ahead of Ashley Grimes.

And Smith added: "He ran his socks off. He is still learning the game, developing.

"It was nice to get Matt Preston on the pitch for his debut at the end, too.

"It was harsh on Grimesy because he did so well on Saturday but I just thought Jordy with his pace would ruffle their feathers.

"I was gutted I could not put Grimesy on, but with Fordey going off injured and the fact we had to withstand some pressure I would rather put a big header on the pitch in Matty Preston."